Produced early in the 3020's as a potential alternative to
the venerable Rifleman BattleMech, the JNK-1SW
Jonkers was expected to find favor among anti-aircraft
and long-range support units across the Inner Sphere.
Unfortunately for Silver Wolf Industries it was an
unmitigated failure. Though the reason was never actually
determined, demand for this 'Mech simply never
materialized. Although a few were sold at full price, most
had to sold at prices so low they barely covered
production costs let alone transport fees. As such this
'Mech is rarely seen in the Inner Sphere beyond scrap
heaps or backwater worlds that don't rate better forces.
Capabilities:
The capabilites of the Jonkers are very basic and
straightforward. It was given a top speed of 60kph and a
maximum jump distance of 120 meters, enough
maneuverability to get to prime firing positions on the edge
of a battle. Although the weight of its armament only
allowed for 5 tons of armor, this was considered sufficient
as this unit was not intended to enter the thick of combat.
Unfortunately its painfully thin back armor has proven to
be the downfall of many of these 'Mechs over the years
and has added to the stigma surrounding this design.
Offensively the Jonkers is appropriately outfitted for its
direct-support/anti-air role. The dual Class-2 Autocannons
it carries in its right arm allows it to fill the shy with lead and
hit targets even at extreme ranges, while the Large Laser
gives it a very good punch at medium ranges. In the
Jonkers' case, however, this has not proven a good
enough combination to overcome its other flaws.